The reputation is probably still there. There's a measure of truth in it, although a bit less than is often assumed. I generally describe Carolingia's ambient attitude (which I actively promote) as, "Be as authentic as you personally feel is convenient." It's pretty self-defined, phrased more in terms of personal goals than absolute ones -- I think that fits with the SCA rather well.

It's a good point to keep in mind, although mostly only relevant to people who start out with at least half a clue. That's a smallish minority of potential members, although larger than it used to be...